Interview with Incoming President TJ Casser

Incoming president TJ Casser is thrilled to join the ACHARAI X cohort, a journey he hadn’t envisioned when he participated in the first ACCELERATE cohort which is for emerging leaders just two years ago. Having now participated in ACCELERATE and continuing in ACHARAI, TJ reflects on his growth as a leader, the valuable lessons he’s gained, and his commitment to staying actively engaged with Na’aleh.

TJ’s Leadership Journey:

When TJ was encouraged by his synagogue to join ACCELERATE, a program designed for emerging leaders, it was a moment of recognition and possibility. As TJ reflected, “It was the synagogue’s way of saying, ‘We see you as a potential leader.’” Although TJ had held leadership positions in other contexts, he recognized that synagogue leadership required a unique set of skills and perspectives—ones rooted in Jewish values and communal responsibility. ACCELERATE became an opportunity to explore what it means to lead within a Jewish framework.

The decision to join ACHARAI, however, was more intentional. “ACHARAI was about understanding the tools I needed to chart a course for the synagogue and address serious adaptive challenges,” TJ explained. Where ACCELERATE focused on emerging leadership, ACHARAI took it a step further by preparing participants to set goals, define visions, and lead with purpose. “It’s one thing to be an emerging leader,” TJ said, “but it’s another to determine the goals and decide who you are as a leader.”

Bridging Leadership Skills Between Cohorts

Each program offered a unique set of skills that complemented the other. ACCELERATE provided foundational tools and helped TJ understand how to tell a compelling leadership story. ACHARAI built upon that foundation, asking deeper questions about leadership potential and providing opportunities to apply those tools in more complex ways. “ACCELERATE gives you the basics,” TJ shared. “ACHARAI helps you think differently, build confidence, and explore who you are as a leader. They build upon each other in powerful ways.”

One leadership practice that has stuck with TJ throughout both programs is storytelling. “I’ve learned to think more concretely about the story I’m telling,” TJ said. “What part of my journey am I sharing? What is the problem I’m trying to solve?” This intentional approach has helped TJ focus on identifying adaptive challenges, speaking them aloud, and resisting the urge to rush toward solutions. The result? Better outcomes and more meaningful engagement.

Looking Ahead: Goals as President

As TJ prepares to step into the role of synagogue president, his leadership goals reflect a commitment to stability, connection, and vision. “Beth Israel has experienced significant change recently—a new rabbi, cantor, executive director, and head of the Hebrew school,” TJ noted. “My goal is to ensure the synagogue’s long-term strength while fostering a productive Jewish life for our community.”

To do this, TJ plans to focus on building relationships, being a steady and calming presence, and meeting people where they are. “There’s no guidebook for this,” TJ acknowledged. “It’s about using soft skills, building connections, and creating a sense of stability and purpose.”

Reflecting on his journey, TJ emphasized the profound impact of both ACCELERATE and ACHARAI. “I couldn’t imagine stepping into the role of president without these programs,” he said. “They are invaluable tools for developing and supporting leaders. I’d recommend them to anyone looking to grow in their leadership journey.”

From emerging leader to synagogue president, TJ’s journey is a testament to the power of intentional leadership development and the lasting impact of programs like ACCELERATE and ACHARAI.

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